Question

what best describes the structural progression of the poem?

a. it begins with the nautiluss living journey, moves to its remains, and ends with a moral lesson.
b. it starts with a scientific explanation, moves to history, and ends with predictions.
c. it opens with memories, shifts to childhood scenes, and ends with a farewell.

1. it begins with a tragedy, shifts to unrelated images, and ends with a warning.

Explanation:

Analyze the beginning of the poem

The poem opens by describing the living nautilus ("ship of pearl") sailing through enchanted gulfs and sweet summer winds.

Analyze the middle of the poem

The poem shifts to the physical remains of the nautilus ("Wrecked is the ship of pearl", "its sunless crypt unsealed") and how it built its shell over time.

Analyze the end of the poem

The final stanzas draw a spiritual lesson from the nautilus's growth, urging the soul to build "more stately mansions."

Answer:

• (A) It begins with the nautilus's living journey, moves to its remains, and ends with a moral lesson. (Correct answer)
• (B) It starts with a scientific explanation, moves to history, and ends with predictions.
• (C) It opens with memories, shifts to childhood scenes, and ends with a farewell.
• (D) It begins with a tragedy, shifts to unrelated images, and ends with a warning.